Press Conference Comments
Made on February 15, 2017
Policy Summary
On February 15th, 2017, President Trump hosted a joint press conference with Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu. During the press conference, Trump responded to a question about the two-state solution with extreme ambivalence. He stated that he likes “the one that both parties like” and would not commit to the previous administration’s adoption of the two-state solution nor multiple agreements through the United Nations committing the region to resolve its conflict. Additionally, US Ambassador to the UN Nikki Haley stated that the United States still supports the two-state solution but does not consider Israel-Palestine a “real threat in the Middle East.” LEARN MORE
Analysis
The Trump Administration is again contradictory and misguided when it comes to important diplomatic policy. Trump’s passive rhetoric and refusal to take a stance not only sends a confused message to our allies, but it also enables aggressive moves by the Israeli government to continue illegal settlements against the Palestinians. The United States has been committed to a two-state solution, from recognizing the rights of Palestinian people to direct economic support of the Palestinian government, and to change this policy in response to one question from the media is feckless and irresponsible. LEARN MORE
Engagement Resources
- Palestinian Center for Human Rights – A Gaza City based NGO which works to improve democracy and secure human rights for affected Palestinians.
- Peace NGO – An organization which works within the constraints of the United Nations in order to form a peaceful, two-state solution to the conflict.
- Palestinian Children’s Relief Fund – PCRF helps Palestinian children access necessary medical treatment for both physical and mental ailments.
This brief was compiled by Jacob Malinowski. If you have comments or want to add the name of your organization to this brief, please contact jacob@usresistnews.org.
